For women, the ageing process, and the effect it has on our skin is a reoccurring topic of conversation. The term ‘Anti-ageing’ is repeated by women around us and the beauty industry. Although we cannot stop the natural ageing process (as unfortunately this is part of life), there are certainly ways we can prevent the process from causing more or too much damage to our skin. As well as slow down the process. The Laser Treatment Clinic have provided some information as to what exactly happens to our skin during the ageing process and how we can care for our skin to prevent the unwanted effects of this process.
What happens to our skin during the ageing process?
During the ageing process several things are happening beneath the surface of the skin. To keep it as simple as possible here is a short explanation as to why fine lines, wrinkles and other skin concerns begin to appear after we hit a certain age:
- As our skin ages the outer layer of skin (epidermis) thins.
- Our levels of collagen decrease overtime. This is the protein responsible for the skin’s elasticity. As our skin ages the body starts to produce less collagen and therefore our skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic.
- Overtime the melanocytes in our skin or the pigment containing cells also decrease. Often, remaining cells will appear as age spots while other areas of the skin may appear paler.
- Our sebaceous glands also begin to produce less oil, meaning our skin becomes drier and sometimes itchy. Women tend to notice this more as they come to the end of menopause.
Slowing the ageing process on your skin
Although we can not stop the ageing process completely, there are a number of ways to care for your skin which will slow the process or decrease the signs of ageing.
SPF and caring for your skin in the sun
Most of the skin changes we experience with ageing are related to our exposure to the sun. This is therefore a key starting point for caring for your skin.
Where possible you should be avoiding long periods of sun exposure and actively preventing sun damaged skin. Using a high-quality SPF for the face and body is very important and should be a key part of your morning skin routine. This doesn’t just have to be applied when visiting the beach or the pool. SPF should be used daily, even on cloudy days.
Good Nutrition and lifestyle
Keeping yourself hydrated daily will help to maintain the moisture in your skin. Dehydrated skin is often more susceptible to skin injuries. Your diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, high in necessary vitamins and minerals. A high sugar diet can actually impact the production of collagen in your skin losing its elasticity. You may notice your skin begin to sag. Cutting out sugar can be extremely difficult, but even just reducing your intake will make a difference to the appearance of your skin.
Smokers will notice the effects of ageing on their skin much sooner than non-smokers. Smoking can have a very negative impact on your skin, leaving the skin appearing grey and dry. Making lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, will have a positive long-lasting effect on your skin.
Skin Care routine
Taking care of your skin and keeping it moisturised is key to caring for your skin, no matter your age. Products to look out for and to incorporate into your routine should include:
- A daily SPF
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Retinol
Treatments for ageing skin
For those already noticing the signs of ageing on their skin, such as:
- Pigmentation
- Uneven skin tone
- Loss of facial volume
- Loss of firmness
- Lines & Wrinkles
- Dull skin
- Facial redness
Could consult a skin care clinic for treatments which will reduce the appearance of these skin concerns. Often laser treatments combined with skin rejuvenation products will be used in-clinic to revive the skin and bring back a youthful glow.